Rangers run into fixtures pile-up

Scottish fixture congestion has resembled the M25 during rush hour in recent weeks and the game's authorities face further headaches after this keenly contested fifth-round draw between Hibernian and Rangers. Both clubs are keen to replay on Wednesday night, a suggestion that has been rebuffed by the Scottish Football Association given that this is an international week.

Walter Smith, the Rangers manager, said he was "bemused" by the SFA's stance, Smith's team having no midweek alternative until at least early March. The quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup, where Rangers or Hibs will face Livingston or Partick Thistle, are scheduled for March 8-9. The SFA will meet today to discuss matters, with Wednesday February 27 a possible replay date if the Premier League agrees to postpone Rangers' match with Hearts, scheduled for that night and due to be screened live on television.

Such complexities should not detract from an absorbing cup tie. Hibs, despite starting sluggishly, produced the better chances and ultimately forced Allan McGregor, the Rangers goalkeeper, into a rash challenge on Dean Shiels two minutes from time, which resulted in his dismissal. Rangers had been unfortunate not to be handed a penalty within the opening minute, Steven Naismith falling under a challenge from Kevin McCann.

Hibs rallied before the interval, Shiels seeing an eight-yard shot deflected, and Steven Fletcher produced even better in the 57th minute, a long-range volley that McGregor brilliantly palmed away. The home midfielder John Rankin displayed similar wastefulness on two occasions, before McGregor hurtled out of his goal to halt Shiels in his tracks 20 yards out.